Scouting History – past to present Can you imagine a world without Scouting? Without Scouting skills for life, the world would certainly be a less interesting place, and if it wasn’t for the talent and originality of one man, the Scout Movement might never have existed at all. This man was Robert Baden-Powell (1857-1941), a soldier, artist, actor and free thinker. Best known for his spirited defence of the small South African township of Mafeking during the Boer War, he was propelled to further fame as the Founder of Scouting. Inspired during the siege by the initiative shown by boys under pressure, Baden-Powell (BP) realised that young people had huge potential that was often left untapped. Already thinking of developing a training programme for young people in Britain, he was encouraged by friends to rewrite his handbook for soldiers (Aids to Scouting) for this younger audience. The Brownsea camp In 1907 Baden-Powell held a camp on Brownsea Island in Poole, Dorset, to try out his ideas and brought together 20 boys from a variety of backgrounds. The success of the camp spurred him on to finish what would become a classic book of the 20th century. Scouting for Boys was published in 1908 in six fortnightly parts at 4d a copy. What had been intended as a training aid for existing organisations became the handbook of a new Movement, which secured the royal seal of approval the following year when King Edward VII agreed to the introduction of the King’s Scout Award. In its first census in 1910, Scouting had almost 108,000 participants; over 100,000 were young people. Scouting for all ages It was a global phenomenon. As numbers grew, it soon became clear that young people of all ages and in every country wanted to get involved in Scouting. Wolf Cubs came along for younger Scouts in 1916, followed four years later by Rover Scouts for an older age range. 1920 was also the year of the first World Scout Jamboree. At London’s Olympia, Scouts from across the world gathered to celebrate international unity and the growth of their great Movement. Branching out Lord Baden-Powell died in 1941 but his legacy continued. Scouting became a byword for adventure, usefulness and global friendship. As the Movement spread across the world, Scouting continued to evolve in the United Kingdom. Following heroic work during the Second World War when Scouts acted as coast guards, couriers and stretcher bearers, members continued to show they were truly able to live their motto ‘Be prepared.’ Farewell Message Baden Powell left a farewell message to be passed on to the Scouts and Leaders upon his death: Dear Scouts If you have ever seen the play Peter Pan you will remember how the pirate chief was always making his dying speech because he was afraid that possibly when the time came for him to die he might not have time to get it off his chest. It is much the same with me, and so, although I am not at this moment dying, I shall be doing so one of these days and I want to send you a parting word of goodbye. Remember, it is the last you will ever hear from me, so think it over. I have had a most happy life and I want each one of you to have as happy a life too. I believe that God put us in this jolly world to be happy and enjoy life. Happiness doesn’t come from being rich, nor merely from being successful in your career, nor by self-indulgence. One step towards happiness is to make yourself healthy and strong while you are a boy, so that you can be useful and so can enjoy life when you are a man. Nature study will show you how full of beautiful and wonderful things God has made the world for you to enjoy. Be contented with what you have got and make the best of it. Look on the bright side of things instead of the gloomy one. But the real way to get happiness is by giving out happiness to other people. Try and leave this world a little better than you found it and when your turn comes to die, you can die happy in feeling that at any rate you have not wasted your time but have done your best. ‘Be Prepared’ in this way, to live happy and to die happy – stick to your Scout promise always – even after you have ceased to be a boy – and God help you to do it. Your friend, Baden-Powell Forward thinking Scouting has never stood still. New branches such as Air and Sea Scouts became increasingly popular, gaining recognition from the RAF and the Royal Navy. Scouts were on hand to help out at major events such as the Queen’s coronation, helping the crowds who camped out overnight to get a glimpse of the spectacle. The Movement continued to grow and move with the times. Rover Scouts and Senior Scouts became Venture Scouts and the badge system was updated to reflect the wider range of activities a Scout could do. Girls were invited to join the Venture Scout section; this was introduced to other sections in the early 1990s. In the true spirit of an inclusive organisation, younger children got to experience Scouting for the first time with the official incorporation of the Beaver Scouts in 1986. Three years later, official headgear was abolished for all sections. Scouting for the 21st Century Scouting in the UK has evolved to meet the changing needs of young people while staying true to its core values of adventure, friendship, and personal development. The movement continues to inspire young people to learn skills for life, contribute to their communities, and embrace new challenges. A Modern, Inclusive Movement The Scouts have grown into one of the most inclusive youth organisations in the UK. In 2007, The Scout Association welcomed its 500,000th female member, reflecting its commitment to gender equality. Today, young people of all backgrounds, abilities, and faiths can take part, ensuring Scouting remains open to everyone. Skills for Life: A Focus on Growth In 2018, The Scout Association launched its ambitious Skills for Life strategy, aiming to prepare young people for the future with practical skills, confidence, and resilience. This includes: Outdoor adventure, with over 200 activities from climbing to kayaking. Community impact, encouraging Scouts to take action on local and global issues. Digital skills, ensuring young people are prepared for an increasingly tech-driven world. A Global Perspective UK Scouts remain an active part of the worldwide Scouting family, participating in events such as the World Scout Jamboree, EuroJam, and international expeditions. These experiences promote global citizenship, cultural exchange, and an understanding of international issues such as climate change and sustainability. Scouting in Meltham Meltham Scouts play an important role in bringing these values to life at a local level. Through regular meetings, outdoor adventures, and community service projects, young people in Meltham develop valuable skills, build friendships, and contribute positively to their town. Whether it’s taking part in conservation efforts, learning new survival skills, or supporting local charities, Meltham Scouts embody the spirit of modern Scouting—preparing for the future while staying connected to their community. Scouting and the Future As Scouting moves forward, it continues to adapt. With increasing digital engagement, sustainability initiatives, and leadership programs, Scouts UK is committed to helping young people develop skills for life while making a positive impact on the world around them. At the dawn of the 21st Century, the Association again underwent reform with the launch of a new logo, uniform and training programme and the introduction of Explorer Scouts and the Scout Network by 2002. In 2007, the Movement celebrated its centenary and the 21st World Scout Jamboree was held in the UK. Scouting hit the headlines in 2009 when TV adventurer Bear Grylls was announced as the new Chief Scout. Bear Grylls decided to step down in 2024, after 15 years of being the Chief Scout and was replaced by Dwayne Fields. For your child to join us on these adventures at 5th Holme Valley (Meltham) Scouts, please use the Youth Application Form.